Ruby by Example

Book Description

There may be no better way to learn how to program than by
dissecting real, representative examples written in your language
of choice. Ruby by Example analyzes a series of Ruby
scripts, examining how the code works, explaining the concepts it
illustrates, and showing how to modify it to suit your needs.
Baird's examples demonstrate key features of the language (such as
inheritance, encapsulation, higher-order functions, and recursion),
while simultaneously solving difficult problems (such as validating
XML, creating a bilingual program, and creating command-line
interfaces). Each chapter builds upon the previous, and each key
concept is highlighted in the margin to make it easier for you to
navigate the book.

You'll learn how to:

Use the interactive Ruby shell (irb) to learn key features of
the language

Extend Ruby using RubyGems, the Ruby package manager

Create numerical utilities, as well as utilities that process
and analyze HTML/XML

Implement purely functional and metaprogramming techniques to
save time and effort

Optimize, profile, and test your code to make sure that it not
only does its job, but does it well

Create web applications using Rails

Ruby is the fastest growing programming language today, and for
good reason: Its elegant syntax and readable code make for prolific
and happy programmers. But it can be difficult to understand and
implement without a little help. Ruby by Example shows you how to
take advantage of Ruby as you explore Ruby's fundamental concepts
in action.